The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a crucial extension for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
This decision, revealed on Thursday, comes in response to widespread stakeholder appeals.
Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner, who disclosed the extension during a press briefing in Benin City, the state capital, said, “the commission has granted a three-day extension from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15,”
Olumekun stated, addressing a room full of journalists and election observers.
This move pushes the deadline for PVC collection to less than a week before the scheduled September 21 governorship election, providing a last-minute opportunity for eligible voters to secure their voting rights.
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The decision to extend the PVC collection period emerged from a high-stakes interactive meeting convened by INEC with key stakeholders in Benin.
Olumekun elaborated on the meeting’s significance, saying, “The meeting was well attended by chairmen of political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations and the media.” This broad spectrum of participants highlights the inclusive approach INEC is taking to ensure a smooth electoral process.
According to Olumekun, the extension was a direct response to the unanimous appeal from these stakeholders. “The stakeholders unanimously appealed to the commission to consider an extension of the collection of PVCs to enable more voters get their cards,” he explained, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the decision-making process.
The meeting also saw addresses from high-ranking officials, including INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. Their presence and engagement with stakeholders underscore the national importance of the upcoming Edo election and the commitment of both electoral and security apparatuses to its success.
Detailing the logistics of the extension, Olumekun stated, “The cards will be available for collection in our 18 local government offices across the state from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.” This decentralized approach aims to make the collection process as accessible as possible for voters across Edo State.
However, the INEC National Commissioner was quick to emphasize an important caveat: “There would be no collection by proxy, in line with the commission’s policy.” This strict adherence to established protocols reflects INEC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the voter registration process and preventing potential electoral fraud.
As the clock ticks down to the September 21 election, all eyes will be on INEC’s ability to manage this extended collection period effectively. The commission’s performance in this crucial phase could set the tone for the entire electoral process in Edo State, with potential implications for future elections across Nigeria.
With tensions running high and the stakes even higher, Edo State finds itself at the epicenter of Nigeria’s ongoing journey towards democratic consolidation. As voters rush to secure their PVCs, and candidates make their final pitches, the coming days promise to be a critical period in shaping the political future of this key Nigerian state.
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